India’s cruise tourism is evolving from luxury to accessibility, appealing to diverse age groups. With supportive policies and improved infrastructure, India aims for one million cruise passengers by 2029. Interest from Millennials and Gen Z is driving market growth, but challenges like port infrastructure need addressing for success in this sector.
Barcelona is tackling concerns over overcrowding and overtourism linked to cruise ships by redeveloping its seaport. With a 20% rise in cruise passengers since 2018, Mayor Jaume Collboni proposes limits, including higher tourist taxes. The city plans to reduce cruise terminals from seven to five by 2030, enhancing sustainability.
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal celebrated the luxury cruise ship MV Empress’s arrival in Vishakhapatnam, marking a significant milestone for Andhra Pradesh. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu and other officials emphasized expanding cruise tourism, projecting economic benefits and job creation while enhancing maritime infrastructure at various ports across the state.
India is set to collaborate with ASEAN to establish cruise tourism routes in the Indian Ocean and Bay of Bengal, announced Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. During the ASEAN-India Cruise Dialogue, discussions focused on enhancing connectivity, improving port infrastructure, and fostering sustainable tourism across the Indo-Pacific region to boost maritime cooperation.
The FCCA reported record economic contributions from the 2023-2024 cruise year, with $4.27 billion in direct expenditures across 33 destinations. This marked a 27% increase from 2018, supporting 94,027 jobs and 29.4 million onshore visits. Cruise lines spent $968.3 million, with an average of $29.3 million per destination.
An investment of Rs 45,000 cr will be channeled towards the development of inland waterways in the country, Rs 35,000 cr for promoting the cruise sector, and another Rs 10,000 cr for developing cruise terminal infrastructure by 2047, leading to a quadrupling of cargo volumes. The council includes representation from northeastern and plains states.
